Training Tips with Gizzy (and Cherie): Issue 17

🐾 Training Tips from Gizzy: Sniffari Safari! 🐾

Theme: Why Sniffing Isn’t Slacking—It’s Serious Business!

Hey hey, friends! It’s me—Gizzy the Explorer—back with some wisdom from the wilds of our driveway, the side yard, and that one patch of grass that smells suspiciously like raccoon.

This week, Cherie and I went on something she called a “Sniffari.” I thought maybe we were going somewhere fancy (do they make safari hats in my size?), but turns out it was just our walk… with a twist.

Because here’s the deal: I love to sniff.
Like, LOVE.

Some people think sniffing is just wasting time or being stubborn, but Cherie says sniffing is how I read the world. It’s like my version of checking emails, scrolling social media, and catching up on the latest neighborhood gossip—all at once!

So instead of rushing me along, she gave me a cue: “Go sniff!” And then? I got to just do my thing. No leash tugs. No hurrying. Just me, my nose, and a field full of fascinating smells.

And guess what? When I was done sniffing, I was calm, happy, and focused. (Okay, fine… I was also a little tired. My nose worked overtime.)

🐾 Why Sniffing Is So Important for Us Dogs

Cherie says dogs experience the world through our noses first—and when we get to sniff, it gives us:
👃 Mental enrichment – Sniffing burns energy and engages our brain!
💪 Confidence – Exploring the environment helps us feel more secure.
🧘 Stress relief – A sniffy walk helps us decompress and self-regulate.
💖 A better relationship with you – Because you’re letting us do something natural and FUN.

🎯 Gizzy’s Sniffari Tips

🐾 Try a Decompression Walk – Use a long line in a safe space (like a field or quiet trail) and let your pup guide the route with their nose.

🐾 Add a “Go Sniff” Cue – Teach your dog that they can sniff when given permission, and that checking back in with you = more freedom!

🐾 Mix it Into Structured Walks – Alternate between focus time (heel, tricks, recall) and sniff breaks so your pup gets the best of both worlds.

🐾 Let Them Sniff the “Weird Stuff” – Garbage can? Patch of weeds? That random stick? Yep—if it’s safe, let them investigate! Their nose knows.

🐾 Keep Sniffing Sessions Chill – This isn’t the time for leash corrections or high-energy play—Sniffaris are about relaxation and exploration.

So next time your pup stops to sniff, take a deep breath and let them be the tour guide. You might be surprised how much calmer, happier, and more connected your walks feel. 💛

Have you gone on a Sniffari lately? Drop your stories or photos in the Facebook Group—I want to hear all about the sniffs, the dirt, and the drama!

Until next time, keep wagging and sniff something fabulous,
Gizzy 🐾🕵️‍♂️